US to release advanced EMALS tech for Indian aircraft carriers
What's the story
The US has agreed to release the technology for the advanced Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch System (EMALS) for the Indian Navy's under development future aircraft carrier, INS Vishal.
The Trump administration has informed New Delhi of its decision, which comes ahead of Secretary of State Rex Tillerson's visit to India.
India had earlier expressed interest to acquire EMALS to the Obama administration.
What
What is EMALS?
EMALS was developed by US defense manufacturer General Atomics to replace steam catapults currently being used on US Navy aircraft carriers to launch warplanes.
They can be used to launch heavy aircraft but themselves weigh less, cost less and are easier to maintain.
The EMALS has been integrated into the US' latest and most advanced nuclear-powered aircraft supercarrier, Gerald R. Ford.
Why
Why India needs the EMALS?
The EMALS is meant for INS Vishal, an indigenous 65,000-ton supercarrier which will be nuclear powered, according to veteran defense journalist Ajai Shukla.
It will be able to accommodate around 55 aircraft, including 35 fixed-wing fighter jets and 20 helicopters.
It's expected to be commissioned in the 2030s.
The Navy is looking to buy 57 twin-engine carrier-borne fighter jets.
Significance
Importance of US' decision to give India EMALS
The EMALS decision signals the importance the Trump administration has given to the strategic partnership with India.
Earlier, US Defense Secretary Jim Mattis visited India to boost military cooperation.
The fact that America is willing to share its most advanced naval technology with India indicates it views the Indian Navy as a crucial counterbalance to the Chinese navy in the Indo-Pacific region.